The Bombers copped a father of a hiding from their impressive hosts in a one-sided contest played over six quarters.
The first three quarters involved the senior players of both clubs, but it was a diluted Kyabram side with 12 of last year’s premiership side missing for various reasons which took to the field.
Jason Morgan, Anthony Depasquale, Kaine Herbert, Brad Whitford, Bohden Learmonth, Coby McCarthy and Jake Parkinson were current players and members of last year’s premiership side who missed along with recruit Ruben Rhode.
Only Parkinson is expected to be not available for the Kyabram’s opening round GVL clash with Rochester at Kyabram on Good Friday.
He is recovering from a broken arm, but should be ready to return by round two.
The Bombers were beaten soundly by a much taller, physical and hard running South Bendigo unit.
Classy regulars in Mick Mattingly, Riley Ironside, Zac Norris and Josh Dillon battled hard and defender Oscar Dixon was the best of the emerging Kyabram players in the main game.
Fly-in Gold Coast recruit and former player Rhys Clark also showed out at times in a game in which there were few positives for the Bombers.
Thirds result
Kyabram thirds scored a comfortably win against strong opposition under new coach Mark Patten in the early game.
The young Bombers had good defenders in Oscar and Riley Carver who were consistent all game, while centreman Tyler Doolan did a lot of telling work.
Classy senior prospects Charlie Isaac and Isaiah Scoble also stood out when they got game time.
